Wildcats v Tigers: Wright attacks Trinity’s ‘crowd controls’

CASTLEFORD Tigers chief executive Richard Wright has hit out at Wakefield Trinity Wildcats’ plans to allocate much of the newly-covered North Stand to home fans in the Stobart Super League XVII derby clash at the Rapid Solicitors Stadium tomorrow, Friday.

Yesterday, the Wildcats stated on their website: “Castleford Tigers fans will only be able to enter the Rapid Solicitors Stadium through the turnstiles on Doncaster Road and will be directed to either the Eastern terrace along the side of the pitch or the North East corner of the stadium as per their choosing.

“The remainder of the North Stand will be occupied by home supporters and stewards will be on hand to monitor this.”

However, Wright has reacted angrily to the plans and issued a statement on the Tigers’ official website, saying: “Castleford Tigers wish to express their disappointment by a statement from Wakefield Wildcats concerning Cas’ fans attending Friday’s away derby.

“I’ve had lots of emails and phone calls over night from irate fans following this statement and I share their disappointment.

“I have not been consulted on this, and the club has had no formal notification. More importantly, we’ve sold ground standing tickets to our supporters on the basis that fans can stand where they always have over many years.

“For this to come to light so near to game day after most fans have bought their tickets is hugely disappointing for all concerned and I question the legality and safety implications of what they are planning.

“Wakefield fans can be assured that in the return fixture at the PROBIZ Coliseum no stipulations will be in place on them.

“Castleford Tigers prides itself on being a friendly, hospitable venue equally for both home and away fans.”

Wright added: “Ultimately, Wakefield controls the security of their own ground and we don’t have any control. However, I have written to James Elston (Wakefield chief executive) asking on behalf of everyone concerned with Castleford Tigers that this decision is re-considered by the Wakefield club.

“I also ask each and every Castleford fan to act in an appropriate manner on Friday.

“This is an opportunity for our fans to show how they are the best in the game and I hope all of the frustrations from this decision can be channelled positively into cheering the Cas’ team on to victory.”

Read tomorrow’s Wakefield Express for more build-up to the Wakefield Wildcats’ derby clash with Castleford Tigers.